Name: Sarah PetersonAge: 20Year: JuniorFrom: Linden, VAMajor: Political ScienceHobbies: Playing basketball and soccer.What is your favorite class or professor? My favorite class was probably either History 201 or 202 taught by Dr. Adam Schwartz. He taught every class like it was a story, which made it very interesting.What extra-curricular activities do you participate in? I play basketball and soccer for Christendom. It's really a lot of fun and you get to know your teammates/classmates really well!What is your favorite thing about Christendom? The classes and extra-curricular activities are great, but my favorite part about Christendom is the people you meet here. I have made many close friends.Why did you choose Christendom? I wanted to go to a school where I knew it would help strengthen my faith. I also wanted to go to school with a good core curriculum.What surprises you the most about Christendom? Just how much you really get to know everyone at this school—students, teachers, and staff. To them you are an individual, and you get to know them on a personal basis and not just be "a face in the crowd."What are your plans after graduation? Still figuring that out... but, hey, I've got a year left. Any parting words of advice for a prospective student? Definitely come and visit! The summer programs are great, but it is also good to see what school is like when there are actually students on campus. Also, keep an open mind and decide if you like Christendom after you visit. It could change your life, like it has mine and so many others.

Dancing Under the Stars

On Saturday, May 4, the senior class president, David Townsend, hosted the annual “Dance Under the Stars.” Held outdoors at the tennis courts near the Student Center, the dance was a great way to wrap up the last week of classes and give students a fun and relaxing time before the start of finals. Some students played corn-hole throughout the evening out in the parking lot, while everyone enjoyed a variety of refreshments. Some Juniors returning from Rome made a surprise appearance, much to the delight of their friends on campus. Overall, the dance, complete with a fog machine and balloons, was an atmosphere of lighthearted fun and good company.

On Sunday, May 5, the Swing Club and the Contra Club teamed up to host a “Swingin’ Sock Hop” in St. Lawrence Commons. Students were able to take a break from studying and enjoy a couple hours of swing and contra dancing with their classmates. The Commons was brightly decorated for the event, and a big spread of snacks was available for participants to enjoy. Students also ate their fill of ice cream—except this time it was in the form of root beer floats to match the 50’s theme. Some students even showed up dressed in 50’s costumes, adding to the overall fun.

Everyone enjoyed taking part in traditional contra dances such as the ‘Minotaur’ and also having plenty of time to put to use all the great swing dancing skills they’d learned over the past school year.

During the week of finals and thesis defenses before graduation, a few awards were given to students who excelled in academics or serving their fellow students.

Philip Briggs was awarded the Joe McGlynn Award for Service. Phil dedicated countless hours of volunteer service to the college and the Student Activities Council.

Nicholas Blank was awarded the Patrick Quest Leadership award by Coach Vander Woude for his great contribution to Crusader athletics on and off the field.

The History Department awarded its Dr. Warren Carroll award to the top senior history thesis writers. Above Dr. Adam Schwartz and Dr. Brendan McGuire stand with recipients John McFadden and Rachel Kujawa.

Caitlin Thomas was awarded the Robert C. Rice award for excellence in English Language in Literature.

Baccalaureate Mass

The College celebrated its commencement weekend on May 10-12. The first event of the beautiful weekend was the Baccalaureate Mass celebrated by Archbishop Charles Brown, Papal Nuncio to Ireland.

"One of the truly beautiful and remarkable strengths of Christendom College is how the plurality of vocations has historically been so well represented by your graduating classes,” the archbishop said during his homily on Friday. “Christendom graduates have followed the Lord and lived lives of holiness as priests, religious, sisters, monks, and brothers, and as holy married people. The extraordinary richness of this variety of vocations from Christendom is an eloquent proof of the deeply Catholic and truly Catholic character of this college. And of that, all of you—especially the class of 2013—can be justifiably very proud."

Archbishop Brown delivers the homily.

Graduation Dinner & Dance

After the Baccalaureate Mass, students, faculty, and parents headed to the Shenandoah Country Club for an elegant reception and dinner. Students and parents were able to chat with the professors who have been mentors to the students, guiding them through Christendom's powerful intellectual formation. After several toasts and a viewing of the senior slideshow, all headed back to campus for the Graduation Dance which featured a live band, Yesterday Swing Orchestra.

Students and parents enjoyed a view of the beautiful Virginian countryside.

Students faculty, and staff converse.

Senior Colleen Harmon poses for a photo with Archbishop Brown.

The club provided an elegant atmosphere for the evening.

College President Dr. Timothy O'Donnell offered a toast to the parents of the graduates.

Vice President for Academic Affairs offered a toast to the graduating class.

Senior Class President David Townsend offered a toast to the faculty.

Student Body President Emiko Funai offered a toast to the staff of the college.

The band cranks out some swingin' tunes.

Freshman Brad Torline swings his partner.

The live band kept the dance floor hoppin' all night.

Junior Melanie Clark shares a dance with Senior Peter Spiering.

Commencement 2013

Saturday's ceremonies began with a bagpipe-led procession from Christ the King Chapel to St. Louis the Crusader Gymnasium. There, the college awarded degrees to the 96 graduates, honored Archbishop Charles Brown, Papal Nuncio to Ireland, and Mrs. Anne Carroll, founder of Seton School in Manassas, Va., and Seton Home Study School. Archbishop Brown celebrated received an honorary doctorate before delivering the commencement address. Mrs. Carroll, the wife of Christendom’s founder Dr. Warren Carroll, was awarded the College's St. Catherine of Siena Award for Distinguished Service to the Church & Christendom College.

Salutatorian Nicole Koopman of Topeka, Kan., welcomed all the attendees and, in her address, noted the great change that has happened in the world and in the graduates themselves since they came to Christendom as freshmen. She highlighted the many opportunities the students have had to guide student organizations on campus and to share their faith off campus:

Our class has indeed shone in various leadership roles— and I enjoin my classmates to continue to follow the example of our former pope, Benedict XVI, who leads the Church through his profound humility. While Christendom does indeed prepare its students for pursuing intellectual studies, it certainly has supplied us with the tools to flourish in whatever occupation we choose to pursue after college. Just as a warrior undergoes vigorous training before battle, so too does Christendom provide valuable training before entering the fray.

Director of Admissions and Alumni Relations Tom McFadden presented the Student Achievement Award to Nicholas Blank of Woodbridge, Va., for his dedication to the community. Blank made great contributions to the student life of the college and was active in varsity sports, clubs, and many other facets of student life.

Mrs. Anne Carroll, founder of Seton School in Manassas, Va., and Seton Home Study School, was awarded the college's St. Catherine of Siena Award for Distinguished Service to the Church & Christendom College. Mrs. Carroll, the wife of Christendom’s founder Dr. Warren Carroll, gave brief remarks in which she recalled the watchwords of Christendom College coined by her late husband, “Truth exists. The Incarnation happened”:

These words were the purpose of the founding of Christendom. They've sustained this enterprise through all the trials of the building of Christendom and now they are proclaimed in the glory of Christendom over which Dr. O'Donnell is presiding... But far more importantly [Christendom alumni] are placing Jesus Christ at the center of their lives. Because He is the Truth and He is God Incarnate. And whenever, wherever our alumni are, whatever they do, they are helping to bring about the new springtime in the Church—to build the civilization of love.

In his commencement address, Archbishop Brown warned students that they are entering “a world which more than ever is drifting aimlessly on a sea of relativism, while at the same time being convulsed with spasms of anger directed at traditional moral values.” He suggested that proclaiming that truth does exist is the solution to many of the problems in this world:

Indeed it even seems redundant for us to even mention this to you to todayBecause the greatness and lasting value of your education at Christendom has been premised precisely on this fact—that there is such a thing as truth. And that truth and the search for truth is worth everything...Your years at Christendom have given you an unparalleled preparation for living your faith in our contemporary world. By loving the truth and living the truth, you will have an effect on everyone you come in contact with—an effect that is accomplished simply by living and not necessarily always by preaching.

Valedictorian Sarah Halbur of Joliet, Ill., delivered her address. Halbur said that, for her and her fellow graduates, their time at Christendom was not only a time of intellectual and academic growth, but also a time to learn how to love more deeply:

We have learned to love each other, while growing friendships through thick and thin. We have learned to love our professors, as they have stretched us through thick and thin. Caring for the ill, orphaned, and impoverished during spring break mission trips has expanded our capacity to love those whom the world considers worthless. And in the process of it all, we have learned to love God with a greater maturity, with a greater fidelity, and greater trust.

Closing the ceremony, college President Dr. Timothy O'Donnell delivered his charge to the graduates. He told them that at Christendom they have encountered what G.K. Chesterton called “the romance of orthodoxy”:

Through faith and reason in your studies here, you have united yourself more deeply to Christ. I have seen that—especially of those of you who have lived in Rome. You know that you are part of a vast, yet a very intimate supernatural family that—despite the portrayal in the press—is young, is vibrant, and is alive...Here at Christendom you have only started the journey. It's the beginning of consecrating your intellect and will to Christ, which will take an entire lifetime to complete.

Senior ReflectionsAt graduation, Anne Carroll, the wife of Christendom’s founder Warren Carroll, quoted what our founder used to call "The Watchwords of Christendom," saying, “Truth exists. The Incarnation happened.” This, she said, was what motivated Dr. Carroll to found Christendom, to write the History of Christendom series, and to inspire so many young people to pursue truth in a world that has forgotten it exists.

Graduation is a bittersweet time. Any senior will tell you that. Every moment is a mix of tears at parting and excitement for the future. It’s also a time of reflection.

Five years ago, I came to the Experience Christendom Summer Program as a brand new Catholic. I admit to being one of those kids who came to Christendom very reluctantly. As a convert, what made the most impact on me was the unity of the Christendom community. As a senior, I understand so much more that the unity within the College is not due to the size of the school, the emphasis we put on formation, or the events Student Activities hosts. It comes from each individual member’s commitment to Truth. We are Catholic, united in the person of Jesus Christ Who is Truth itself.

No institution is perfect. Every student at Christendom, myself included, has his or her complaints. It is necessary, however, to step back from those complaints to recognize that very few college students are given the gift of faculty and staff who applaud their colleagues as men and women of true virtue. To know someone who is truly virtuous is rare, and to be taught or mentored by that person is a gift that, at Christendom, we students have a tendency to take for granted. Our professors sacrifice so much for Truth. That alone speaks to the fulfillment of the vision of Warren Carroll. My four years at Christendom have given me the best friends I may ever have, an education that is unparalleled in its commitment to Catholicism, and the opportunity to see virtue in action. What we have been given is priceless. Dr. Carroll’s mission will live on in the faculty, staff, and students of Christendom College. Truth exists. The Incarnation happened.

-Emiko Funai, Class of 2013

When I was asked to reflect on my years at Christendom, I thought to myself, "where on earth am I going to start?" That thought kept running through my head, as I tried to think of a way to start. Then it occurred to me: Christendom IS the start. In so many ways, Christendom is the starting point of its students' lives. I am not saying that people did not have lives before or during their time at Christendom, but the real start to their own lives as individual adults begins at Christendom, and is able to flourish because of Christendom. Christendom gives each and every student a true and strong foundation upon which to start his life beyond Christendom, and endure through the many trials and temptations of the world.

The Good Lord knows my weaknesses and struggles, but Christendom has given me the strength to recover when I stumble, and fight through this world to reach the next.

After all, that is what Christendom is for: it gives each person what is necessary to reach eternal salvation, and nothing is more important than that. That is what makes Christendom one of the best colleges in the world.

Christendom also is the start of many life-long friendships. I have made friends with people who make me a better person, and who give me strength and inspiration in my life, and I know that I will have these friends my whole life. When I look back to how I was four years ago, I thank God for all that I have experienced at Christendom which has helped me to be better prepared for the world. Perhaps I never will be ready for it, but without Christendom, without the foundation that it has provided, I would sink for sure. Through the education, the friendships, and the experiences that Christendom has given to me, I know that I can face the challenges of this world. And for that, I thank Christendom with all my heart.

Looking back on the last four years, and all the memories made, I can't help but be excited about what the future has in store. I think I can safely say that these past four years have been the best of my life so far, but I think I can also safely say that the best is yet to come, which fills me with excitement and wonder about what God has planned for me in the upcoming life that Christendom has started for me. So, to Christendom College, the professors, faculty, staff, and students, I thank you for an amazing experience, a fantastic start, and a firm foundation.

And to the class of 2013: thank you for these past four years. Thank you for the memories, the experiences, and the friendships. You will all remain with me and be in my prayers. God bless each and every one of you, and may He keep you always close and firmly in His Sacred Heart. I love you all, and I will miss you! Ciao!

-Nate Collins, Class of 2013

Honoring the Seniors, Continued…

Joseph Walsh who has been the Athletic Department’s journalist for the year sat down with graduating seniors Dan Mitchell, Rob Hambleton, and Theresa Lamirande.

Dan Mitchell What sports have you played? I've played baseball and soccer while at Christendom: baseball for four years and soccer for two years.

What positions did you play?Keeper for soccer and shortstop for baseball.

What was it like to play these sports and try and balance it with all your other responsibilities?I think it actually helped me learn how to balance and prioritize my time because you don’t have a lot of free time with sports. As a result, you spend the free time you have doing schoolwork or being with your friends.

What was your greatest game over the last four years?I don’t think I ever had an outstanding personal performance, but one of the greatest team performances I saw was junior year in soccer when we beat Bryn Athyn in the first game of the year. We went in to overtime and had been fighting hard the whole way through. When regulation ended, it was tied at 2. But a couple minutes into overtime, Tommy Salmon scored the winning goal. It was an exhilarating feeling to get a walk off win like that because the whole team knew they had contributed somehow.

What was the greatest upset you were a part of?Our win junior year over Penn State Mont Alto, for sure. It all started during the car ride when we got stuck in traffic and ending up getting slightly lost, showing up to the game right on time. The umpires gave us ten minutes to warm up. We started the game and had one or two really big innings which put us ahead, and then we held on to the lead for the rest of the game. The top moment was probably when Matt Speer caught the final out of the game to seal the win.

What’s your favorite memory of the last four years in sports?There is no single memory but the hustle and dedication of John Federline ("J-line") is something I’ll never forget. One moment that sticks out is during my junior year we were playing a game at Bing Crosby Stadium and we had run out of water. One of our starters, Pat Stein, got up to refill it but J-line, who doesn’t get much playing time at all, jumped in and intercepted the water cooler from Stein. It wasn’t J-line’s job but he saw that as the best way he could help the team and he did it wholeheartedly. It would be a cool story if he did that just once but he does that at every practice and every game.

What piece of advice would you have for an incoming freshman considering sports?Don’t let the small size of Christendom deter you from coming here for sports. I played varsity baseball for a large public high school, but here, I was still able to keep playing the sports I loved while building great friendships and becoming a leader in the process.

Rob Hambleton

What sports have you played? I have played rugby, baseball, and soccer for Christendom College. I also played a number of other intramural sports, such as basketball and dodge ball and a little bit of ice hockey back home.

What positions did you play? On the rugby pitch, I played inside and outside center for the back line. I played mostly third base for the Crusader baseball team and I was a full back on the soccer team.

What was it like to play these sports and try and balance that with all the other responsibilities? It was definitely a challenge at times, particularly when exam and paper due dates approached, which seem quite often. But as a whole, it helped me tremendously. Sports are an outlet for me, they allow me to get out of the books and exert some energy. It would be hard for me personally to not play any sports. Sports helped me balance my life here at Christendom. School work is mental exercise, but I also needed physical exercise and I’m not the type to work out in the gym all the time. Sports helped me to excel in my academics because of the balance it brought to my day to day life here at Christendom.

What was your greatest game over the last four years? The greatest game I’ve ever been a part of was against Southern Virginia University in a soccer match on their field. We lost to them earlier in the season in a close game, but we got our chance to redeem ourselves later on when we traveled down to their field. It was one of the first games I played as a starting full back and it was 0-0 all 90 minutes of regulation time. It was really intense, but we ended up winning with a golden-goal in over-time.

What’s your favorite memory of the last four years in sports? Greatest game memory was the Southern Virginia game, but I had some pretty awesome times on the road trips - they were a lot of fun. And most of my closest friendships started on the sports teams with me.

What piece of advice would you have for an incoming freshman considering sports? Play. I can’t stress how much sports helped me here. They helped balance my schedule and keep me sane when the academics got hard. And the athletic department at Christendom has an underlying structure which helps an athlete to grow as a person -physically, spiritually, and mentally and not just on the field.

Theresa LamirandeWhat sports have you played? I played soccer for three years.

What positions did you play?Freshman year I played striker and then the other two years I played outside midfield.

What was your experience in sports before High School?I played soccer for three years and at the end of my sophomore year I moved to varsity and I played cross country for one year and varsity lacrosse for four.

What was it like to play these sports and try and balance that with all the other responsibilities?Freshman year it was challenging to learn how to balance school work with sports and social life, but after that it helped me to be more organized because you have to budget your time between everything you are involved in.

What was your greatest game over the last four years?My sophomore year I scored off a corner kick, which was the only goal we had off a corner kick all year.

What was the greatest upset you were a part of?My sophomore year we played Davis College from New York. It was a very challenging game that was hard fought against good competition. The feeling at the end was very rewarding after the victory.

What’s your favorite memory of the last four years in sports?When I was a sophomore I had the chance to play with my older sister who was a senior.

What piece of advice would you have for an incoming freshman considering sports?Definitely go out for the team. I remember being a freshman and coming in and automatically having a group of friends to come in with. It’s a great way to adjust to a new school. Plus there are the other benefits of staying in shape and learning how to balance your schedule.

Q. I am finishing up my junior year and would like to know what I should be thinking about as I enter my senior year. What are some dates and deadlines I should know about, and what else can I do to improve my chances of getting in to Christendom? Have a great summer!A. That's a great question, and I think it is smart of you to be thinking ahead toward next year already! First off, I would recommend studying hard over the summer for your SATs or ACTs, which, if you haven't taken already (or maybe you have taken but need to increase your score), you should take in early fall, maybe September or October. We take the ACT and SAT score (either is fine with us) very seriously and use it to gauge a student's academic ability. We do take the GPA into consideration too, but we consider the ACT or SAT to be an accurate way to compare all the various types of educations that our applicants have had. Additionally, once a student gets above a 1920 on the SAT or 29 on the ACT, we give out academic scholarships.

Second, I would possibly think about attending one of our one-week Experience Christendom Summer Programs. These one-week sessions go a long way in helping students to see what life could be like for them if they attended Christendom, and they get to experience the campus life, liturgical life, academic life, and recreational life of the students. Additionally, they make lots of friends, many of whom might end up being freshman with them the following fall (50% of this year's incoming class attended one of our summer programs).

Third, in the fall, regardless of whether you attended the summer program or not, I would recommend planning a visit to campus, while school is in session, to see the place in action. Students can visit most weeks from Sunday-Thursday, and may spend one of those nights on campus after they have made arrangements with the Admissions Office. You would have the opportunity to sit in on classes, stay in the residence halls, attend Mass and meals, and meet with me while you were here.

Fourth, I would recommend applying to Christendom by December 1. This process takes a little time, so don't wait until November 20th to begin the application process. You need to get transcripts sent to us, as well has have two people write letters of recommendation, and then we also need your official SAT/ACT scores. These things take a while to get to my office, so get a jump on this!

Fifth, fill in Christendom's financial aid estimator sometime in September, October, or November. This will give you some insights into how much money you might get from Christendom in loans, grants, and scholarships.

Sixth, figure out what you want in a college. Some tell me they are looking for a good Catholic college. I say to them, what do you mean by "good?" Everyone has a different idea of what they mean by a good Catholic college, so maybe create a little list of what you are looking for, what you don't want to have on campus, and things that would be icing on the cake if they existed. For example, some think that a good Catholic college has an entirely Catholic faculty, where all subjects are taught by professors who are orthodox Catholics and teach things from a Catholic worldview when appropriate. Others think that a good Catholic college needs to only have orthodox Catholic professors teaching in the theology department while it is just fine to have non-Catholics teaching in the history, political science, or literature departments. Some think that a good Catholic college should have single sex residence halls, while some that aspect is not something that is important to their definition of "good." So, figure out what you think a good Catholic college should be and offer, and then look around the internet and find the place that meets your needs. If you can't figure it out via the internet, give me a call anytime and I can help you out with your discernment process.

That's about all I can think of right now, but hopefully it will give you something to think about and enable you to prepare better to come to Christendom College. Hopefully, I will see you this summer at one of our quickly-filling-up Experience Christendom Summer Programs!

Director of Admissionstmcfadden@christendom.edu800.877.5456 ext. 1290

If anyone has questions about applying, visiting, scholarships, financial aid, campus life, rules and regulations, majors, core curriculum, transfer credits, or even about the food here at Christendom, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.

Name: Kevin YoungAge: 20Year: SophomoreFrom: Nazareth, PennsylvaniaMajor: TheologyHobbies: Reading, cooking, the occasional video game, and fishing when I can find the time.What is your favorite class or professor? Theology, particularly biblical studies. There’s just something about delving into the Scriptures that I find immensely satisfying, and the entire theology department is great.What extra-curricular activities do you participate in? I’m currently serving as Chairman of the Chester-Belloc Debate Society which, understandably, receives most of my attention.What is your favorite thing about Christendom? The library is just incredible. I often find myself meandering throughout the shelves and stumbling upon books that I had always wanted to read, but had never been able to find anywhere else. It’s been a source of great joy for me as a student and as a theological enthusiast.Why did you choose Christendom? I chose Christendom because I believe in the New Evangelization, and I felt that this school was particularly well-equipped to help me contribute to it. The world, in case you haven’t noticed, is growing increasingly dark. God is excluded, not only from the public square, but from the hearts and minds of millions of our brothers and sisters across the world. Naturally, this radical secularization has led to a great emptiness, an infinite emptiness which these same millions try to fill with drugs, sex and other finite, often destructive, things. I feel it my duty as a Christian to do what I can to combat this emptiness, specifically through the spreading of the Gospel. In order to do this effectively in the modern era, we need to be intellectually competent, well versed in theology and philosophy, rhetoric and other such disciplines. Christendom can give you that competence in a way that few other institutions are capable of.What are your plans after graduation? This is a good question! At the present, I leave it in God’s hands. I’d like to go on to teach a world religions course at a community college somewhere, but I’m also deeply interested in the permanent diaconate and other types of active ministry.Any parting words of advice for a prospective student? The modern world is disillusioned, hurting and hostile to Christ and His disciples. There will come a time in your life when you will be attacked for the Faith, but do not despair! Be not afraid! Your only job is to love God and to love people. Do that, and everything will turn out just fine.

North vs. South

Last Wednesday, the school hosted a Lincoln-Douglas style debate in the Commons. The resolution being debated was “The Secession of 1860-1861 was legally and practically justified.” Joe Walsh, Margaux Killackey, and Nick Gossin debated the pro-side. On the con-side were Matt Marcolini, Brendan Vieira, and Dr. Vieira. Each side gave an introductory speech, a rebuttal of the opponent’s introductory speech and a closing argument. Before the closing arguments the two sides engaged in a cross examination. During the debate the pro-side made the argument that because the people of each state are sovereign, they have the sovereign power to secede from the Union. The con-side fired back by saying that even if the South had the right to secede there were other Constitutional means that they should have used to settle the issue. After the closing arguments, the judges, Prof. Jenislawski, Dr. Diem, and Prof. Hickson, deliberated their decision. Each team could have reached a max of 300 points. At the end, con received 238 points; pro received 224.

Margaux Killackey and Nick Gossin consult their notes during the debate.

“The Kid and a Bike”

One of the last movie nights of the semester was held last Friday by none other than Christendom’s well-loved Registrar, Walter Janaro. The movie choice of the night was a critically acclaimed French film entitled “The Kid with a Bike.”

Before the showing, guests helped themselves to some “theater food” and good conversation. Once it was time to begin the film, Walter briefly explained some thoughts and reflections on the movie and its directors and then premiered the film. For those who attended, the movie was fantastic and a great way to end the semester's Movie Nights.

Walter discusses the film before it starts.

Spring Formal

The highly anticipated Spring Formal dance occurred on Saturday evening outside the Rivendell Commons in Front Royal. The event took place under a massive outdoor tent decked out in twinkling lights and a full-sized dance floor. Vinyl Tracks, featuring the college's Director of Computer Services Doug Briggs, provided the music and played a fantastic array of songs that had students laughing, swinging, and slow dancing all night.

“Spring Formal was so wonderful,” said freshman Anna Koerner. “I loved how it was held outside. The live band, the food, all the awesome people and the decorations made it all so perfect! It was such an amazing time that I will never forget.”

When they weren’t dancing, students enjoyed socializing around elegantly decorated tables, sampling delicious finger foods, and enjoying a wide variety of beverages.

The lively band kept students out on the dance floor all night.

Students enjoy a slow dance.

Sophomore Stephen Hyland and Junior Bridget Kulick get into the rhythm.

Vinyl Tracks kept students out on the dance floor all night.

Students swing along to the fantastic live music.

There was plenty of room in the massive tent for all students to dance the night away.

Film Club's Big Premiere

This past Sunday afternoon, students, faculty and family gathered at Royal Cinemas in downtown Front Royal to view the premiere of the Christendom Film Club’s movie, “The Coward.” Based in East Germany during World War II, this short, silent film deals with the question of knowing what is the right thing to do regardless, versus doing the right thing only as a response to the circumstances or consequence one finds oneself in. Written and directed by Junior Joe Duca, the film was shot on Christendom campus, and featured numerous students and even several faculty members. The premiere itself was very well attended, and received a hearty round of applause after the film was over.

“Overall, I think the film was very successful,” said Duca. “It was well-attended and well received, which was very rewarding, considering the great amount of effort that was put into it by everyone involved.”

Students await with anticipation to see what the Film Club has planned as its next project.Sophomores Ann Hess and Rebecca Neltner buy their tickets for “The Coward” premiere.

The crowd listens to the cast as they explained their experience and involvement in the project.

Junior Andrew Hepler, and English Professor Dr. Keats, in a scene from “The Coward”

Defending the Thesis

On Monday evening, students and faculty gathered in the Chester-Belloc room of Regina Coeli Hall to hear the Theology senior thesis defenses. Four Christendom seniors presented and explained their theses to the audience. Senior John McFadden’s was entitled, “Vespertina Oratio Ascendat Ad Te: A Study of the Development, Structure, and Significance of the Office of Vespers.” Senior John Schofield spoke on “The Eschatological Thought of Hans Urs von Balthasar and the Problems Therein.” Sr. Maria Pallares gave her defense on “Our Lady of Guadalupe: Model of the New Evangelization,” and senior Bridget Lademan’s defense centered on, “Fulfilling the Law of Love: The Value of Simplicity in Christian Life.”

The students ended their defenses by answering questions from the audience and professors of the Theology department.

Christianity & Democracy

Dr. Ken Grasso, a professor of political science at Texas State University, delivered a lecture entitled “The Freedom of the Church and the Taming of the State” to the students and faculty on Monday. Speaking as part of the college’s Faith & Reason Lecture Series, Grasso examined the role of Christianity in the development and the future of modern democracy.

Grasso explained that a new and revolutionary view of man and society came with the advent of Christianity. It brought an understanding that changed western political life in fundamental ways and which laid the ground for the western tradition of liberty.

Grasso also noted that the history of the past several centuries suggests that liberal modernity's effort to carry forward the quest for freedom—set in motion by Christianity—on a new and entirely secular basis is in deep trouble. The erosion of morals, virtues, and religious institutions is resulting in a decrease in liberty and an increase in the size of the state.

We did it! With the last class of the day ending and excitement in the air, the classes for Christendom Colleges 2012-2013 year have finally come to a close! …

And what better way to celebrate the end of the school year than with a Christendom style party? St. Lawrence Commons was once again filled with food, games, laughter, and live entertainment in celebration of the end of the year. The Commons quickly became filled with upbeat students all wanting to end the year the right way. As the music began to play, more and more people joined the dance floor. The entire night was filled with laughs and positive energy, a great way to end the year before preparing for finals week and for some, graduation. Though underclassmen will have this opportunity again, for the seniors this party marked one of the final celebrations they would be having as a student at Christendom College. A definite bittersweet event!

Sophomore Gabriella Cintorino starts the night off with some solos on her guitar.

The party had live music, food, card games…anything to help celebrate the end of the year!

The live music people on their feet and dancing!

Senior Eric Maschue plays at his last “end of the year” party.

Canoeing and Kayaking on Our Shenandoah River

There’s no better way to spend a beautiful afternoon outdoors at Christendom than to take a canoe or kayak out on the river. Front Royal is known as the Canoe Capital of Virginia, and with the gorgeous Shenandoah River only a few minutes away from any point in town, it’s no wonder. For Christendom students, the river is only a few minutes walk away, since the Shenandoah literally borders Christendom’s backyard.

Not only is the river this close, but canoeing and kayaking is totally free for Christendom students. The Crusader Gym has a supply of boats that students can borrow during certain hours in the fall and spring. There are canoes, single kayaks, and double kayaks available. St. Brendan’s Landing, a small dock at the river’s edge, gives canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts more ready access to the water. Life jackets and oars/paddles are also provided.

Once on the river, students are treated to a calm current and a spectacular views of the area.

Canoe and kayak outings are highly popular at the College. Whether it’s a group of students trying to cool off after a big exam, a few students looking for adventure, or just a couple seeking some peace and quiet, almost everyone finds a reason to head out on the Shenandoah at some point during the school year. There are also several college-sponsored canoe trips during the year, including a day at the dock for new freshmen during Orientation Weekend, and a massive group day trip down the Shenandoah for all in the school who want to come.

Chronicler Reporter Emma Seidl heads up the river.

View of the valley from the river.

A group trip down the river.

Arrivederci, Roma.

As do all good things, our time here in Rome has come to an end. Tomorrow most of us will be leaving for home to share with everyone what most of us deemed to be the best semester we have ever had! Looking back and reflecting on the semester, we have had so many wonderful memories and blessings...

The conclave was definitely the highlight for us all. Being here in the heart of the Church for Pope Benedict’s last days and resignation, sitting under his window the last night of his pontificate, experiencing the sede vacante, the conclave and the announcement of Pope Francis’ election has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives and truly quite the experience! Here we truly experienced the universality of the Church-especially when we waited with thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square anxiously waiting to hear the name of our new Pope. All I can say is that the emotions and moments which we experienced during that time will always be a part of us and will be something that none of us will ever forget.

It has been great to learn about Pope Francis in Rome. We have had some great insight into who Papa Francesco is and his method of doing things from our amazing art and architecture professor, Liz Lev. Yesterday, we were able to see Pope Francis for the last time as we attended the Wednesday Audience with our Papa, who gave a beautiful reflection on Saint Joseph and Mary.

Another highlight of this semester was our pilgrimage week—particularly the three days we spent in Assisi! Assisi is definitely one of my favorite places outside of Rome (besides Monte Cassino, but it really is an injustice to compare the two), and it was really neat to learn of the love the Italians have for St. Francis, which we saw throughout the whole semester. (There seems to be something pertaining to St. Francis in almost any church in Italy). If you ever find yourself in Assisi, I totally recommend going to St. Francis’ hermitage in Assisi—it is definitely worth the hike! And if you ever see a donkey.. pet it!

Over three months, we have learned a lot about Rome. One thing we learned is that in crowds, the concept of non spingere, which means “do not push,” does not exist, although you can hear people shouting that phrase all the time.

After visiting multiple churches, it is safe to say that you can find a saint’s body (or bones) in almost every church, and that you can find the image of the Holy Spirit in almost every single dome in Rome at least 99% of the time.

If you chase a bus, there is a good percentage that you will catch it—all you need to do is run fast enough. Do look across the street before running headlong into traffic though…especially if it is a four lane street.

Maps are particularly helpful in Rome. Don’t rely on the bus to give you an accurate perspective of where things are. Places are closer than what they appear to be, and maps are just plain awesome!!

The word “strike” is an interesting term here. I am still debating if a planned, monthly, half day strike actually constitutes as a strike. It does end up being an inconvenience when you discover that you are walking to termini to leave for a free weekend, but it is a great way to see the city!

Although you can meet characters of all sorts here, I have met some of the nicest people ever. Angels do come in all shapes and sizes, and miracles do happen.

Of course, we did learn a lot about each other these past few months. For instance, we learned that some of us have different methods for making a pot of coffee, who can understand and speak Italian the best, who the best cooks are in our group, who is most likely to get lost in Rome, and who is more likely to get donuts or kebabs.

Even though we joke around about the differences in culture (I am still not entirely sure if we all ever adjusted to the idea of pranzo), there is something to be said about the Italian culture for it taught us a lot about ourselves and others. It widened our perspective on life. The neatest part of our time here, though, was just living and experiencing the Catholic Faith rich and alive in the heart of the Church, linking antiquity to the present. Rome truly is the heart of the church, the city of Faith, where every ancient, pagan monument is a symbol of the triumph of the martyrs and of the Church. Saint Peter’s Basilica itself is such a powerful witness of what the Church is and her role in salvation history. Rome is one of those things that you simply need to experience. Though her significance is universal to Catholics, it is something different for each one of us as it is a personal journey.

At the beginning of the semester, Kelsey and I were advised by an angel in disguise to “learn Rome” and I think it is safe to say that most of us did just that. I hope that you all were able to learn a bit about Rome in return. It has been a great journey!

Joseph Walsh, who has been the Athletic Department’s journalist for the year, sat down with Tim Beer, Lisa Hill, and Brendan Krebs. Their interviews are below.

Tim BeerWhat sports have you played? I have played soccer, basketball, and baseball.

What positions did you play in those sports? I was the sweeper and captain for two years of soccer. In basketball, I was a shooting guard and in baseball I played 2nd base.

How long did you play those sports? Soccer and basketball for four years and baseball for one year.

What was it like to play multiple sports?It was very time consuming but it forced me to prioritize my time well.

What was your greatest performance?My first three years of soccer here. The team and I played really well.

What was the greatest upset you were a part of?A game against Southern Virginia University during my sophomore year - we beat them 1-0 with a golden goal in overtime. We were playing at their place against a NAIA Division II team, which we had always struggled with and we were supposed to lose. Their fans were really mean to us and we came away with the victory, then we stormed the field. It was the best sports moment of my life!

What’s your favorite memory of the last four years in sports? Definitely the win over Southern Virginia mentioned above.What piece of advice would you have for an incoming freshman student-athlete?I would tell them it’s not easy but to push through the difficulties to form great memories and friendships. And at the end of the day if you give it everything you got that’s all the reward you will ever need.

Lisa HillWhat sports have you played? Volleyball and intramural basketball, soccer, and volleyball.

What positions volleyball?I played setter and outside hitter for Coach Brown and defense and right hitter for Coach Petersen.

How long did you play volleyball for?I played for 3 years.

What was it like to play volleyball?I loved it and it was a fantastic way to organize my time. I really appreciated the help it gave for my time management. I thought it really helped that I started freshman year because it made it easy to plan with the mentality that volleyball was a priority and I would have to accommodate everything else.

What was the greatest upset you were a part of?I don’t think I can narrow down to one specific game but rather growing from a team that was learning the basic skills to being able to perform at the same caliber against more advanced university teams now. I think that was our greatest upset.

What’s your favorite memory of the last four years in sports?Senior night and realizing that the girls who are graduating with me, but also the girls I was leaving behind, will always be more than a team to me but as close as sisters. I thought of Coach Josh Petersen and the overwhelming support he gave to all of us girls. That night I wasn’t just playing a game but I was leaving a part of myself on the court for volleyball players to come.

What piece of advice would you have for an incoming freshman considering sports?If you are interested in a sport and God has given you an awesome talent then here at Christendom you should look to take advantage of the athletics offered. For freshmen this is a very unique opportunity to relate to upperclassmen because playing on a sport team allows you to interact with them in a way that doesn’t accentuate the difference in grade level. Don’t be afraid to join freshman year because it will only get more difficult to make a commitment to a team as your time at Christendom continues.

Brendan KrebsWhat sports have you played and how long?Basketball for all four years at Christendom.

What positions in basketball did you play?I played point guard, although it isn’t my natural position.

Why did you decide to come to Christendom?I came to Christendom mostly because of my dad and Coach Vander Woude, and I couldn’t be more grateful to either of them. Although it wasn’t my ideal choice at first, I wouldn’t trade the experience I’ve had here at Christendom for anything any other school could offer at this point.

What was it like to play a sport that was as demanding as basketball?Looking back on things, I wish I had worked harder. Perhaps that’s the mentality of every athlete. Basketball was definitely demanding, but for future athletes, give all you can, and when you’re in history or philosophy thinking about how badly you’re dreading coming to your second practice of the day, give more. Give it for your teammates, for coach, for the people who support this program. It’s worth it.

As team captain how did you motivate your teammates?My teammates motivated me. I couldn’t thank them more for putting up with me, for allowing me to talk before games, for giving me the opportunity to lead them in whatever way I could. I would like to thank them for coming to practice and putting in hard work so that we could function and improve as a team.

What was your greatest individual performance?My greatest individual performance was the final game I played in against Appalachian Bible. Coach came in at halftime and inspired us to rally to win the game that we should’ve been dominating from the start. After that, we came out and ended up winning the game 104-66, when it was only 51-50 at halftime. It was a really good experience to come out and have a nice victory, not to mention it was the last game I was able to play with my friends and teammates.

What’s your favorite memory of the last four years in basketball?One of my favorite moments was when Brian Fox got his dunk against MACU, and when Mark Hepler played his best game in his final game. Winning against Patrick Henry in Double OT after being down several points was quite exhilarating. It was also great playing with my best friends, Tim McPhee and Tim Beer. All were great memories.

How did you overcome the disappointment of not being able to play basketball this year due to your knee injury at the beginning of the season?I was able to overcome the disappointment of not playing this year by the support and belief that my teammates had in me. I was unable to practice with the guys, but somehow they still tolerated my yelling at them from the sidelines and my pre-game speeches. Their belief in me allowed me to continue to feel a part of the team.

What piece of advice would you have for an incoming freshman student-athlete?For incoming freshmen, my best advice would be to cherish the opportunity you’ve been given. As a competitive athlete, we didn’t win as many games as I would’ve liked; however, this team and this organization has helped me grow as a basketball player, as a teammate, and as a friend. Make sure to give it all you’ve got and don’t take for granted the time you have. I was lucky enough to play a decent amount of minutes as a freshman, but my playing career was ended prematurely. Don’t take a game, practice, or day on campus for granted. This applies to both basketball and life in general. It’s an incredible opportunity, and if you’re a part of it, take advantage of it, even if its two-a-days, if you have a midterm the next day, a girlfriend, or whatever else. You won’t regret giving it your all.

Q. I am interested in food, I mean, I like to eat and so therefore I would like to hear more about your food service offerings at Christendom. I've visited some colleges and found the food to be horrible. When I visited Christendom during the summer program, I thought the food was pretty good. Seeing as how I was only there for one week in the summer, I am interested in hearing how the food service works during the school year. Thanks!

A. Christendom’s food service is generally considered to be very good. We survey the students about it on a regular basis, and we look for comments and suggestions all the time on ways we can improve. And when we get the feedback, we make the changes, if at all possible. We have food service committees (made up of the class presidents and some staff members) who discuss various options and or problems on a regular basis, and we even have a comment board up in the kitchen for students to register their delight or dissatisfaction or desire to have more pizza or less potato salad or whatever. The Chef always responds to these comments.

Our kitchen staff, with Chef Dennis Paranzino at the helm, do the best that they can to have diverse and delicious food offerings at each meal service. Of course, you are going to get some students that will disagree with this statement, but in general, I believe this to be truthful. I eat here at lunch just about every day, Monday through Friday, and quite often I am here for brunch with my family on Sunday, so I think I have some idea of what I am talking about.

Meals at Christendom are served at three specific times each day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and all those interested in eating are expected to show up to the dining area at that time and eat with everyone else.

For breakfast you could expect to find the kitchen serving things like bacon and eggs, egg sandwiches, egg burritos, pancakes, home fries, bagels, waffles, omelets, french toast, sausages, eggs benedict, and the like. There are also a bunch of cereals from which to choose. For lunch, you normally get a choice of two or three different items. One or two are served hot, and we always have the “Sandwich Deli Bar.” Every day you can go through the “Deli Bar” line and have a freshly made deli sandwich for lunch. Also, during lunch (and dinner), there is a fresh salad bar and a choice of delicious homemade soups and a variety of fruits. And a very popular item is the “Ice Cream Bar,” available after every lunch. And for dinner, the meals that are served are generally comfort foods, or foods that “Mom” would make. Here's this week's menu, if you are interested in seeing what's the students are eating.

For students who have special dietary needs, the kitchen staff is available to figure out how they can best serve them. We are able to meet the needs of our students with celiac disease, dairy allergies, and the like. Also, for students who need to be off the meal plan for serious reasons, the College has a number of “house” dormitories where students have access to a full kitchen and can provide their own meals.

Chef Dennis is awesome and is very willing to work with students to help them with their food selections and eating habits. I ask a lot of students what they think of the food, and unless they are extremely picky eaters, they tend to say it’s pretty good. This was not always the case at Christendom.

For more information about dining services, check out this web page.Director of Admissionstmcfadden@christendom.edu800.877.5456 ext. 1290

If anyone has questions about applying, visiting, scholarships, financial aid, campus life, rules and regulations, majors, core curriculum, transfer credits, or even about the food here at Christendom, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.